Serial drunk driver convicted of second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter
A jury at Sacramento Superior Court today convicted a repeat DUI offender in the 2022 death of a motorist and serious injury of two others.
Angel Bahena was found guilty of second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, DUI causing injury and DUI causing injury with a BAC more than .08%. Additionally, the jury determined Bahena has one or more prior DUI convictions, personally inflicted great bodily injury and caused bodily injury to more than one victim.
On May 15, 2022, Bahena ran a red light at the intersection of Florin Perkins Road and Elder Creek Road and collided with the victims’ vehicle. Marilyn Pillos sustained fatal blunt force trauma injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A second victim sustained severe blunt force trauma injuries including a lung contusion, broken ribs and laceration to his liver. A third victim sustained lacerations to her body while Bahena sustained injuries and was transported to the hospital.
A blood test showed Bahena had .11 percent blood alcohol level and a toxicology result that was presumptive positive for cocaine and cocaine metabolite. Bahena has two prior convictions involving driving under the influence of alcohol. In both of his prior convictions, he was provided w
ith the Watson advisement, which is an advisement that driving under the influence is extremely dangerous to human life and might lead to a charge of murder if someone is killed as a result.
Bahena faces a maximum sentence of 22 years to life in prison. Sentencing is set for December 15, 2023, by Judge Laurel White.
